Fascinated by mystical Maha Kumbh seers? Now, you can take 5-hour walk tour across akharas; here's what it will cost

Naga sadhus' of 'Juna Akhada' take a holy dip at the Sangam on the occasion of 'Makar Sankranti' festival, during the Maha Kumbh Mela 2025, in Prayagraj (PTI)

The enigmatic lives of Naga Sadhus, Aghoris, and Kalpvasis residing in the Akharas of the Maha Kumbh have long intrigued the masses. These monastic organizations, deeply rooted in Hindu spirituality, have often remained shrouded in mystery due to restricted access. To bridge this gap and offer a closer look at these spiritual traditions, the Uttar Pradesh government has launched a unique “Maha Kumbh Walk Tour,” with costs ranging from Rs 2,000 to Rs 3,500, depending on the package.

Mukesh Meshram, Tourism Secretary, elaborated on the initiative, saying, “The walk tour is an effort to demystify the Akharas and the lives within them. For Rs 2,000, visitors can explore an Akhara and engage with its sadhus. A comprehensive package covering Akharas, Naga Sadhus, Aghoris, and Kalpvasis is available for Rs 3,500. This initiative aims to offer a glimpse into their spiritual practices while respecting their traditions.”

Starting daily at 7:00 am from the Tent Colony in the Parade Ground and concluding at noon, the tour offers a rare glimpse into the spiritual and ascetic practices of these revered communities. Participants are guided through the Akharas by knowledgeable experts, equipped with printed handouts and maps of the Mela, eco-friendly carry bags, and a bottle of mineral water to make the experience both informative and comfortable. While personal expenses, camera fees, and tips are excluded, the tour ensures an immersive dive into the world of faith and devotion at the heart of the Maha Kumbh.

The Akhara Experience

Akharas are monastic organizations or groups of sadhus that serve as hubs for spiritual discipline, knowledge sharing, and devotion. Visitors on the walk tour will witness the day-to-day activities of these spiritual communities.

Naga Sadhus, for instance, are known for their ascetic lifestyle, often living in seclusion and adhering to rigorous spiritual practices. “Our discipline is our devotion,” said Mahant Shiv Giri, a Naga Sadhu from Juna Akhara. “We renounce worldly possessions and dedicate our lives to spirituality. This walk tour is an opportunity for people to understand the essence of our path, not just its outward appearance.”

Aghoris: Beyond the Fearsome Facade

The Aghori sect, followers of Lord Shiva, is often misunderstood due to their fearsome appearance, which includes matted hair, ash-smeared bodies, and garlands of skulls. However, Aghoris embody a profound spiritual philosophy centered on non-discrimination and universal acceptance.

“Aghor means simplicity. People are often scared of us, but our practices are meant for spiritual elevation and detachment from materialism,” explained Sadhu Bhairav Nath, an Aghori saint. “The cremation ground, where we meditate, symbolizes the ultimate reality of life and death. Through this initiative, we hope to dispel misconceptions about our way of life.”

Kalpvas: A Journey of Self-Purification

Kalpvasis, another significant group at the Kumbh, spend a month in spiritual discipline at the Sangam, the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and mythical Saraswati rivers. This ancient practice, mentioned in Vedic texts and epics like the Mahabharata, emphasizes self-purification and devotion.

“Kalpvas is a time of reflection and penance,” said Sadhvi Maithili, a Kalpvasi. “Our days are spent in prayers, fasting, and bathing at the Sangam. The walk tour allows visitors to experience the depth of this tradition firsthand.”

An Inclusive Initiative

The walk tours aim to cater to a diverse audience, from curious visitors to serious spiritual seekers. The packages include guided visits to the Akharas, interactions with sadhus, and insights into their rituals and daily routines.

“This is not just a tour; it’s an opportunity to understand and respect the spiritual fabric of India,” Meshram told this reporter. “We believe this initiative will deepen people’s appreciation for the Maha Kumbh and its profound heritage.”

The Maha Kumbh Walk Tour offers an immersive journey into the mystical world of Akharas, blending education and spirituality. Whether it’s the disciplined life of the Naga Sadhus, the meditative practices of the Aghoris, or the self-purification rituals of the Kalpvasis, this initiative promises a transformative experience for those who participate.